At the 10th Delphi Economic Forum, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, in a discussion with journalist and author Robert D. Kaplan, emphasized Greece’s robust position within the European Union and NATO.
He highlighted Greece’s strategic partnership with the United States and wanted to strengthen these ties further while actively shaping EU policies.
Addressing concerns about potential tariffs from the new US administration on European goods, Mitsotakis advocated for free trade and welcomed US President Donald Trump’s decision to pause tariffs for 90 days. He warned that a trade war between the EU and the US would harm both sides and urged using the 90-day period for constructive dialogue. He noted that tariffs on Greek products like olive oil, olives, and feta lack justification, as they do not compete with US industries.
Domestically, Mitsotakis acknowledged Greece’s political landscape, where his center-right government holds a strong majority against a fragmented opposition. This imbalance, he cautioned, risks fueling populism. However, he expressed optimism about Greece’s future, citing fulfilled campaign promises, rising wages, and job growth. With a solid fiscal foundation recognized by citizens, he predicted a win for his party in the 2027 elections. He also noted that the government’s parliamentary majority reassures foreign investors.
Greek-Turkish Relations
In Türkiye, Mitsotakis described coexistence as a geographical necessity, with the primary bilateral dispute centered on delimiting the Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf. Acknowledging that this issue has persisted for decades, he remained skeptical about near-term solutions but stressed the importance of dialogue and cooperation. He pointed to the successful 7-day visa program for Turkish tourists visiting 12 Eastern Aegean islands, which has boosted economies and relations. Simultaneously, he underscored Greece’s commitment to strengthening its armed forces as a deterrent, while supporting the EU’s strategic autonomy. Through regular meetings, Mitsotakis emphasized maintaining open communication with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Broadening Strategic Horizons
Beyond Türkiye, Mitsotakis outlined Greece’s expanding diplomatic and economic engagements. Greece is fostering strategic ties with Israel, Egypt, and Gulf nations, and exploring natural gas deposits off southern Crete with US companies like Exxon and Chevron. He stressed Greece’s commitment to a stable and prosperous Eastern Mediterranean, engaging all regional stakeholders.
US Relations and Trump
Reflecting on his relationship with President Trump, Mitsotakis described Greece-US ties as strategically vital. Having worked with Trump during his first term, he expressed confidence in sustaining their positive rapport. He emphasized that collaborating with Trump is a duty, noting shared geopolitical and economic interests. Greece’s significance, he added, is acknowledged across the US political spectrum, as demonstrated during his 2022 address to Congress.